Kang Jung-hwa wasn't any better. However, she had an older sister in Hollywood, so the two women were evenly matched in terms of background.
Little Seven gave Suho a phone call to explain the current situation; she was afraid that Irene would be bullied again. So, Suho soon arrived at the auditions. Seeing Irene holding the temporary script in her hands, he immediately strode over and asked, "What's wrong?"
As Irene watched Suho appear, she immediately said, "I actually have a thought."
"Your thought is to become Korea's best stunt double."
Irene took a deep breath and realized her previous casual image had been etched too deeply in Suho's heart. As a result, he wasn't used to her seriousness. However, Irene still said what she thought, "I know you arranged this audition for me because you want me to secure some resources and to have a film to partake in. I also know that you don't have much expectation for me, but I want to have some expectations for myself from now on."
"I've looked at the script and I'm aware that you want me to audition for the secondary female character, but I feel that this female character that disguises as a guy is more suited to me."
Suho examined Irene seriously as his lips curved upwards, "Have you made preparations to become a superstar yet?"
"Even if not for myself, I would do it for the sake of your dreams. You were once a top manager, I don't want your skills to become dispensable because of me."
Suho patted Irene on the head; she had grown up.
"You are indeed more suited to the character of this tomboy. Although it isn't a notable character, the design of this character is the most detailed, life-like and the most complete in the entire script. If portrayed well, it has the ability to outshine the secondary character and even the female lead. However, if done badly, it would just be another forgettable, insignificant character. But, we have nothing to lose, we can treat this as a chance for you to accumulate some experience."
"OK," Irene nodded.
"Kang Jung-hwa came for the secondary female character, but she has no idea that this character was merely created to highlight the existence of the female lead. It actually has less value than most of the other characters. The character may appear in a lot of scenes, but it doesn't necessarily mean that it will be likable."
After hearing this, Irene began to laugh as she whispered beside Suho's ear, "According to Kang Jung-hwa's personality, she will definitely mess up."
Kang Jung-hwa seemed to have noticed Irene and Suho talking about her, so she rolled her eyes and walked towards the couple, "The secondary character is mine. Don't even dream about it."
Irene didn't want it to begin with...
As she began to think about the way that Kang Jung-hwa stood in front of Tiffany, she couldn't help but laugh.
"What are you laughing at?"
"Thinking about the way you were punished to stand."
"You just wait. After I become the secondary female, there will be plenty for you to see," Kang Jung-hwa was struck where it hurt. So, after making a lame threat, she turned around and hurried away. Irene was extremely amused as she erupted in tears of laughter.
"I heard her sister is quite powerful, she won't come looking for trouble, will she?"
"Her sister is on Tiffany's level, so Tiffany will naturally find a way to deal with her. If she comes to look for you, she will be devaluing herself," Suho replied with a smile.
....
Kang Yong-Ji was indeed angered. Tiffany had forced her sister to stand for two hours like a student in front of a school dean. No matter who was to hear this, they were bound to feel bad.
"She's just an actress on the brink of expiry, shouldn't she just return home? Why's she walking around acting like a nice person when it's obvious she's not?"
However, Kang Jung-hwa had no idea that Tiffany had entered the studio that day because she had been contracted as the global spokesperson for an international luxury cosmetic brand. This brand was well-known for its lively image.
And this was exactly the reason why Taeyeon chose it for Tiffany. At first, the company was worried about Tiffany's condition. They wondered if she'd be appealing enough. But, as soon as Tiffany put on her white suit, tied her hair into a high ponytail and stepped out in front of everyone, her beauty made it impossible for people to look away.
Because of this, the photographer let out a sigh. Tiffany was in the same state as when she was a model. It was clear to see that Tiffany's professionalism resulted in the strict management of her figure.
It didn't take long before Tiffany began conversing with the man in perfect English and understood the content of the shoot.
So, with the help of the stylist, Tiffany got changed into a set of white activewear.
As the stylist looked at Tiffany's stomach and how it had recovered beautifully, she couldn't help but gasp, "I really can't imagine that you're already the mother of a baby."
"It's actually two babies," Tiffany smiled, "I gave birth to twins..."
The stylist gave her a thumbs up, "You're amazing!"
Throughout the entire shoot, Tiffany changed into a total of 7 sets of clothes, all following a white theme and aimed at women. Inside the rose-filled room, Tiffany's state was unbelievably perfect.
"A professional is indeed a professional," the photographer continuously praised. Tiffany did not forget her original profession at all, especially her gaze.
She was capable of looking fierce, wild, tender and even pure. Perhaps, due to the experience she had gained from acting, when she applied her skills to the advertisement, even the advertiser gasped in surprise. Out of all the models they had ever worked with, Tiffany left the deepest impression.
"Wait until we release this advertisement, the result will definitely be shocking. I can't wait!" the photographer said to the other staff members after he finished.
After Tiffany completed her shoot, she simply wanted to hurry home. The advertiser originally wanted to invite her to dinner, but she regretfully rejected them. After all, she still had two babies waiting for her at home.
"Rather than focusing on work, you're constantly worried about your baby. You're honestly a great mother," the lighting designer laughed.
Because she was a great mother, she wanted to rush home and comfort the good father at home.
Tiffany smiled as she bid farewell to the staff. Afterwards, she left the studio with Sooyoung.
She was capable of returning to the workplace, but the big guy and two little ones at home, were forever her biggest concern.
Upon returning home, Tiffany found Taeyeon fast asleep with the babies.
Seeing Daddy Tae's head up against his two son's heads, Tiffany felt a rush of warmth spread through her body.
She remembered that her and Taeyeon had once promised that they'd be a normal couple as soon as they returned home. It was a place for just the two of them.
Tiffany approached the trio and placed a kiss on Taeyeon's forehead. She then headed into the kitchen to prepare dinner.
It didn't take long before Taeyeon appeared behind her and wrapped his arm around her waist, "Did your first day back at work go smoothly?"
"Of course..." Tiffany nodded confidently.
"Crown Empire received news that Kang Yong-Ji plans to return to Korea to develop her career. It's obvious that she's aiming at you. When she gets back, she may cause you trouble."
"Is this all because I punished her sister to stand?" Tiffany snorted. "Isn't it normal to have small arguments within the industry?"
"She is a smart woman. If necessary, she could even sacrifice the most important people in her life. You are both on the same path. But, when the two of you reach a fork in the road, you are bound to go separate ways. So, she wants to wait for the result."
"Regarding everything else, this Kang Yong-Ji is quite charming!" Tiffany had to admit this. "She must be waiting for me to become a joke."
Kang Yong-Ji became famous at an early age and had experienced lots of underhandedness. As a result, she knew how to behave and how to handle matters. So, in the end, by using Crown Empire as a platform, she graced the international stage with her presence and eventually opened Yi Xing Film and Television. These days, her and her husband worked hard together in Hollywood.
The important turning point that Taeyeon previously spoke about, happened during the time Kang Yong-Ji was still in Crown Empire. At that time she had a loving boyfriend who she had been with for many years. But, in the end, for the sake of future prospects, she had an abortion and broke up with the not-so-famous singer.
For a female celebrity, youth never stuck around for long. So, there was no reason to retreat home before their career even started.
Therefore, at that time, Kang Yong-Ji didn't hesitate at all. When her ex boyfriend found out about her abortion, he almost fell apart. But, in the end, he maintained his composure and let her go.
Perhaps to make Kang Yong-Ji feel regret, the non-ambitious ex boyfriend suddenly woke up to reality and began to use connections to aid in his advancement. As a result, he was now a well acknowledged mentor in the music industry.
It could be said that Tiffany and Kang Yong-Ji's goal was the most similar. But, if Kang Yong-Ji was in Tiffany's position, she would never become an actress just as she was about to become an international supermodel, and she would never have a child when her popularity was at its prime. She wasn't crazy. How many people dreamed of being famous?
Why didn't Tiffany treasure the opportunities she was given?
Kang Yong-Ji disliked Tiffany because Kang Yong-Ji had sacrificed so much to get to where she was today, yet Tiffany always seemed to prove her decisions wrong.
Tiffany had returned to work, so 'Concubine Ning', which had been in preparation for quite some time, naturally sent over their schedule. Although the producers had always said that Tiffany was to play the female lead, they had never announced it to the public. Because of this, Suho once again contacted Tiffany, "Are you ready to go on set?"
'Concubine Ning' was a long imperial palace drama. As soon as Tiffany stepped on set, it would definitely take 3-6 months to complete. She liked the plot, but...
"Let me think about it," Tiffany replied. It was definitely a concern for her to be away from her babies for so long.
"You can go home every day. You don't need to worry about not seeing your children," Suho coaxed her with a tempting offer. "At the moment, quite a few other actresses have already accepted this drama. If you don't make a decision soon, someone might steal the role from you."
"Then so be it..." Tiffany smiled.
"Can you think of anyone that's more suited to this character than you? You've already received the contract long ago. But, you still haven't signed it!"
It's not that Tiffany wasn't excited by a challenge like this, especially since she hadn't experienced filming in ancient attire, but, she had her worries...
"You need to give me an answer by tomorrow morning," Suho was filled with urgency. The preparation stage had already taken too long. Every day that they delayed it, the more resources they'd be wasting.
"OK," Tiffany nodded. "By the way, didn't you say that Irene will have a role in the drama too? How's that going?"
"She has something else that she wants to do," Suho revealed a rarely-seen look of relief.
Irene now knew how to take a lot of things into consideration. She now spoke up about whether something was suited to her or not and allowed Suho to finally see her possibilities of becoming a superstar.
...
Tiffany was indeed tempted to participate in 'Concubine Ning'. But, as she looked at the sleeping expression on her babies' faces, she gave up on the thought.
Good scripts were bound to come around again, but the time spent with her babies could never be reimbursed.
Taeyeon seemed to have noticed her doubts, so, with his identity as her manager, he replied to the producers, accepted the role and told them they could now officially announce it.
"The babies require company, but, you also need to fulfill your dream. I've already contacted the production crew. You will be allowed to return home every day and no one will stop you from keeping the babies company at night. During the day, we will leave these two rascals with our mothers..."
As it was impossible for Hyoyeon to take care of two babies on her own, Bo-ah handed Hwang Corps to Min-ho and stepped down to provide assistance.
The babies' paternal grandmother was a biological researcher and their maternal grandmother was a famous businesswoman. Above all, the two babies were born into a rich family. So, there were no concerns regarding their upbringing.
Tiffany looked at Taeyeon and knew that this man understood her the most, so she did not retaliate as she nodded her head.
"Just because you aren't with them 24 hours a day, it doesn't mean you are not a good mother. Don't feel guilty. When I have time, I will bring them to visit you on set."
Taeyeon would forever remember how Tiffany learned how to act from scratch because of 'Stupid' when she was just one step away from becoming an international supermodel.
At a time like this, a lover's support was the best form of affirmation.
"OK, Daddy Tae!"
Tiffany's decision to join 'Concubine Ning' was originally confirmed and the production crew were already prepared to announce it. As the entire cast was of a high standard, the male lead was not a young idol actor, but also an actor with great acting skills.
But, unexpectedly...
...overnight, the producers of 'Concubine Ning', suddenly changed their minds. Tiffany was supposed to play two roles on her own, but in the end, they decided to add an extra actress and arranged for Tiffany to play just one.
'Concubine Ning' was indeed adjusted. They had previously established that this was a story about a concubine that got beheaded because she brought disorder to the imperial court. But, the twist was, the concubine did not die and came back from the dead with a completely different personality and eventually became a concubine praised by everyone. Afterwards, an identity battle ensues between the two sisters. This was where the producers added a whole heap of fighting scenes between the two sisters...
The feelings evoked by the script suddenly disappeared...
The originally detailed plot had suddenly turned into a story about an exaggerated Mary Sue 1 ...
So, after Suho delivered Tiffany the new script, Tiffany had a quick look and threw it to the side, "I don't care about whether I'm the female lead. But, this character has become too single dimensional. I don't want to act in something that's so exaggerated."
"It's been confirmed that the drama will have two female leads. Do you know who the other female lead is?" Suho looked at Tiffany with deep meaning. "Kang Yong-Ji! Kang Yong-Ji is famous to begin with and she has offered to invest money into the drama. So, of course, the producers naturally felt this was a blessing. Kang Yong-Ji has always been publicly acknowledged as a good actress. So, her presence is not expected to bring down the quality of the drama."
"She's indeed targeting me," Tiffany smirked.
"Tiffany, the drama has a complete script and professional post production. No matter who acts in it, the result will not be that bad. Of course, the addition of good actors is a plus. If you reject this role and the drama becomes popular, the public will definitely have a lot to say."
"They will even assume that you're afraid of Kang Yong-Ji."
"I'm not acting in it!" Tiffany replied decisively. "You know how I am. When I accept a script, the other actors aren't the most important factor. The most important thing is the script itself. Do you think you can even convince yourself with a script like this?"
"One needs to wait for a good script and I'm not afraid of waiting," Tiffany said before she pushed the script back over to Suho. "Sorry, Suho."
Suho was stunned for a moment before he laughed, "This is actually more like you; more like the Tiffany that I know. That's fine, I respect your decision."
"This drama indeed has the potential to be a big hit. But...I feel that simply being well-made isn't enough. The story itself is the most important thing. Only when a screenwriter's art is appreciated can a classic masterpiece be created, rather than having a moment of popularity and then being forgotten afterwards."
Tiffany understood this better than anyone!
...
Soon thereafter, Kang Yong-Ji received news that Tiffany had rejected her role. In response, Kang Yong-Ji was quite confused. Within Korea, a production like 'Concubine Ning' was already considered decent and was likely to be a big hit. Yet, she rejected it. Was it because her role as female lead had been snatched from her? Kang Yong-Ji's lips curved upwards coldly.
Wasn't snatching a common occurrence in the entertainment industry? How could Tiffany be so petty?
Kang Yong-Ji really wanted to know the thoughts that were contained in Tiffany's head. Was her brain made from bean curd?
However, regardless of the reason why Tiffany refused to partake in 'Concubine Ning', Kang Yong-Ji managed to create a hot topic of discussion.
As a result, the following news headlines began to appear:
[International superstar, Kang Yong-Ji, makes a comeback; Tiffany's female lead gets snatched away!]
['Concubine Ning' announces last-minute change to Kang Yong-Ji; Tiffany not fated to be female lead]
All types of news articles spread like wildfire. But, it all came down to one message: Tiffany was originally chosen as the female lead of 'Concubine Ning', but ended up being replaced by Kang Yong-Ji. Everyone tried to guess the reason behind this. Since Tiffany had just given birth, they assumed it was likely because her figure and disposition hadn't fully recovered yet. On top of that, Kang Yong-Ji was internationally renowned and couldn't be ignored, and her acting was well refined. So it made sense for the producers to choose Kang Yong-Ji over Tiffany because she was better value.
_"Tiffany's the one that always steals other's roles. Now that someone else has taken her role instead, it's weirdly satisfying."
_"When it comes to experience, Tiffany is still miles from Kang Yong-Ji. So, it's normal for the producers to change people."
_"Kang Yong-Ji was my dream girl back in the days. I never expected her to make a comeback. I'm really looking forward to it!"
_"Kang Yong-Ji has played so many classic characters. I don't even know where Tiffany was during that time."
Of course, Tiffany's fans fought back.
_"If something belongs to my Fany, no one can possibly snatch it away - unless my Fany willingly gives it away."
_"Don't make Kang Yong-Ji sound so sacred and out of reach. When it comes to acting, our Fany does not lose to her."
_"How could you speak of Kang Yong-Ji. The roles she played in the past were all mechanical, no-brain characters. What is there to be proud of?"
_"There's nothing wrong with my Fany's body and her kids are of no concern at all."
Regardless of the truth, from the intensity of the argument between the fans, it was clear to see that 'Concubine Ning' had become well and truly famous.
Yet, at this time, Tiffany could not step out to speak up for herself. If she was to say that she was replaced, it would mean that she wasn't as good as Kang Yong-Ji. But, if she told everyone that she had rejected the script and the drama became a hit, people would say that she slapped herself in the face and that she was stupid for giving up on a role that helped her advance.
So, it wasn't possible for her to say anything.
Of course, she had another excuse she could have used: she could have said that she had to take care of the babies. But, she couldn't use the kids as a shield. The truth was the truth. She could remain quiet, but she would never do anything that crossed her bottom line.
Even Sunny, who was pregnant, couldn't help but worry about her, "Look at the way this woman has come looking for trouble. Did she come deliberately to steal your role? And did you simply hand it over to her?"
"No. It's because I don't like the script. They've changed it too much," Tiffany replied. If the script remained the same, she would not have given up on it so easily.
"What do you plan to do, then? Your situation is quite awkward at the moment and everyone is making their own assumptions."
"I'll just wait..." Without a good script, all she could do was wait.
"I'm not used to seeing a person with the guts to bully you."
But, bully? Tiffany did not consider it as being bullied. In fact, she was the one that was bullying Kang Yong-Ji.
After all, her babies were her strength.
Meanwhile, Tiffany may have simply rejected the script, but Taeyeon ruthlessly followed Crown Empire's procedures and filed a lawsuit against the producers.
Firstly, when they signed Tiffany's contract, they had agreed to use her as the female lead, yet a second female lead suddenly appeared out of nowhere. Secondly, the producers agreed that the script would not change, yet it went through a massive revision. This was a complete breach of contract.
But, of course, 'Concubine Ning' had a strong backing. Since Crown Empire mentioned compensation, then they were simply going to hand it over.
But, the producers of 'Concubine Ning' verbally declared that they'd never consider Tiffany for any of their projects - ever again.
Since the situation had been blown up so much and Director Chen Feng was a man of integrity, he ended up quitting his position as lead director and left with Suho. Which meant, the entire production was about to undergo a complete change.
In the end, the words that Crown Empire couldn't say, Director Chen Feng said for them,
"As the lead director of 'Concubine Ning', there are a few things I would like to say. Firstly, before 'Concubine Ning' began filming, Tiffany had already signed a contract for the female lead through communication with our assistant director...until changes occurred. Secondly, as soon as changes occurred, the first thing that Tiffany worried about was not who she acted alongside, but the changes itself. It was because she felt that 'Concubine Ning' had lost its original quality, that she decided not to take part in the drama anymore. It had nothing to do with sharing the female lead."
"Tiffany is a qualified actress, so she refused to partake in this drama. And as a qualified director, I will also withdraw from this production."
A statement like this immediately caused an uproar.
The public had now discovered the reason why Tiffany refused to take part in the drama: it was because the script had lost its original quality.
As a result, Director Chen Feng's words not only slapped the producers of 'Concubine Ning' in the face, it also made Kang Yong-Ji's fans blush in embarrassment.
Tiffany didn't want the role; she threw it away. Yet, their idol gripped onto it like a precious gem and was flaunting it wherever she went.
Indeed, the drama was going to be a hit. But, it had nothing to do with it being a good drama...
_"Tiffany carefully selects her scripts. With President Kim by her side, she only accepts the good ones. Look at the films she's done in the past, it's obvious that she is a serious actress. This can't be denied."
_"I hope Tiffany accepts a different drama to compete with 'Concubine Ning'! How interesting would that be!"
_"But, where is she to find a good script with a big production like'Concubine Ning'? It's impossible!"
In reality, Tiffany had simply given up on a script. Chen Feng and Suho, on the other hand, had already made a lot of sacrifices for 'Concubine Ning'. So, it was a real shame for them to withdraw. However, they were both certain of their bottom line.
Of course, neither of them were in as awkward of a position as Tiffany. Tiffany was currently in need of a project to prove her worth. So, when Kang Yong-Ji saw the way that Tiffany suddenly gave up on 'Concubine Ning', she thought she was completely crazy. Within the industry, a project that guaranteed advancement was rare to come by, yet she offended the producers of 'Concubine Ning' so badly...
Everyone was anxious; fans were especially anxious. But, no matter how anxious they were, Tiffany would never accept a script unless it was good.
Meanwhile, 'Concubine Ning' progressed quickly. After Kang Yong-Ji joined the cast, it wasn't long before they released photos of the final makeup and began filming. It was like they were trying to say that there was no place for Tiffany even if she decided to change her mind. At this time, during one of her interviews, Kang Yong-Ji expressed her opinion towards the drama with a smile,
"Everyone has their own meaning of quality. I think the screenwriter has already done a great job. Honestly, everyone needs to respect the hard work of others. Even if you can't show respect, you should at least refrain from casting judgment."
Kang Yong-Ji's choice of words were smart. She appeared to praise the entire crew and the screenwriter for being hardworking and serious. But, she also pointed out that 'someone' held their expectations too high and was too demanding. Needless to say, everyone knew who she was referring to. It was Tiffany. She felt that Tiffany didn't respect the hard work of others!
"As for her so-called intention to only take on good scripts, I feel that a good actor should not be picky. An actor should be able to take on any character that is required of them. That's the proper self discipline expected of an actor."
Regardless of everything else, as soon as Kang Yong-Ji's words were published, they appeared reasonable, but immediately ignited a battle between herself and Tiffany.
As a result, she assumed Tiffany was at home in a state of panic.
But, in reality, Tiffany did not even notice what she did.
Did Kang Yong-Ji say something?
Amongst the many scripts in Crown Empire's hands, Taeyeon tried to pick one with the potential for advancement, but there was indeed none that was suitable for Tiffany. As Tiffany had no projects at hand and did not make an appearance to prove her current state, Fany Fans wanted to stick up for her, but they had no confidence.
It was at this time that a phone call arrived at the CEO's office in Crown Empire.
An author by the name of Tang Xiao, called to say that she had a story in her hands called, 'The Forensic Concubine' that she was adapting to an IP drama and wanted to invite Tiffany to play the female lead.
She was a fan of Tiffany's, so even her pen name used the surname Hwang. She told Taeyeon that she continued to write because of encouragement from Tiffany and that she got to where she was today because of her. So, she felt it was time to show her gratitude.
In response, Taeyeon immediately asked Sooyoung to find information on 'The Forensic Concubine'.
The result? Even Sooyoung was stunned by what he found.
The novel was currently ranked number one on all the biggest online platforms and was well received with billions of views. The author had already been offered huge amounts of money by plenty of film and television agencies, but Tang Xiao had never been convinced because her dream was to have her idol partake in the adaptation some day. So, she continued to hold onto the copyright until now, when the opportunity unexpectedly came along.
"President, this IP is worth a lot. Most importantly, the novel itself is of a high standard and every part of it can stand up against criticism. It's clear to see that the author is very talented."
"In fact, she even prepared the script herself; there's no need for a screenwriter. I've already checked it and it's perfect."
Sooyoung was fairly excited. How could anyone reject a project like this?
Taeyeon received the script and flipped to the first page.
The story did not start off slow and simple. In fact, Tang Xiao's creations were always exciting and captivating.
The very first scene featured the Emperor of the Feng Lan Dynasty questioning the female lead why she was his mother; he was unfortunately in love with her and he admired her.
In actual fact, the female lead was only 3 years older than the emperor because she was a concubine of the previous emperor and received orders to take care of him. At the same time, although she was actually from the future, she upheld the responsibilities of a concubine and hid her true capabilities.
After reading two small sections of the script, Taeyeon closed it back up and said to Sooyoung, "No matter what it takes, let's film this IP drama."
Tiffany received the script later on. As soon as she laid eyes on it, she fell in love with the design. Apart from there being a forbidden love line, the forensic knowledge and related details in Tang Xiao's writing was so professional that even real forensic scientists praised her for it.
It didn't take long before Sunny heard of the news. As soon as she heard it, she gasped in surprise, "Oh God, I've read this novel during my spare time. F*ck, you're actually playing the role of the female lead: my dear Qing Lan. Let me tell you, Tiffany, this novel is honestly really good. If you don't read it, you will regret it!"
Was this considered a pleasant surprise?
Tiffany suddenly laughed.
Sunny could roughly guess how Tiffany was feeling, so she quickly asked, "This is karma for the good things you've done. Reality is proof that your every move has been right. My God, I can't wait to see it!"
As a result, Tiffany was extremely thankful towards the author. In fact, she told Taeyeon to invite her to their home. After all, they needed to discuss the role in person and develop a deeper understanding.
Tang Xiao was excited by the invite. Although she was aware that Tiffany wouldn't have known about her if not for 'The Forensic Concubine', being able to come in close contact with her idol made her feel extremely lucky.
As the script was already good enough, Taeyeon immediately held a board meeting and confirmed that Crown Empire would be investing into the drama and Chen Feng would be invited as the director.
Practically all the directors agreed to the decision and were happy for Taeyeon to go ahead.
With Crown Empire's support, the production crew was quickly formed. At the same time, Chen Feng received the script from Taeyeon. As soon as he looked at it, he immediately gave Taeyeon a phone call and agreed to sign a contract as soon as possible. He was even more excited than them.
It didn't take long before the main production positions were filled and casting was to begin.
But, Tiffany told Taeyeon that she wanted to first speak to the author.
Tang Xiao was talented, so she naturally had her own ideal actors in mind. So, it was best to listen to her suggestions first.
As a result, Taeyeon quickly organized for Tang Xiao to visit and got Sooyoung to personally escort her straight into Hyatt Regency to Tiffany's front door.
Before meeting Tang Xiao, Tiffany had assumed she was a man. But, when the beautiful young lady appeared in front of her, she was quite surprised.
Tang Xiao was so talented and shocking.
"Oh God, Tiffany you are so beautiful..." Tang Xiao was equally surprised by Tiffany. "You're nothing like the rumors. You're not plump and fat at all!"
"If I was plump and fat what would happen? Would you still choose me as the female lead?" Tiffany asked with a smile as she quickly gestured for the author to sit down.
"That wouldn't be possible. You've always had really good self discipline, so I've always had faith in you. I just never expected it to be this good even after you gave birth." Tang Xiao was dressed in a long black dress and she had a pair of gold framed glasses perched atop her nose. She had a shy presence about her; typical of an author that often stayed at home and barely left the house or socialized.
"Do you want to see the baby?" Tiffany asked after she made a cup of coffee.
"May I?" Tang Xiao appeared pleasantly surprised as she looked at Tiffany with a cute and innocent expression.
Tiffany nodded her head. Afterwards, she carried the two babies out of their room. As soon as Tang Xiao realized there were two babies, she was stunned, "You...you gave birth to twins? They are exactly the same!"
"Yes, I haven't notified the public about this yet," Tiffany nodded. "I hope these two rascals can have a peaceful childhood."
"They are so cute..."
Tang Xiao was 23 years old, but she had already written millions of words. Her biggest hit was the novel they were currently discussing, 'The Forensic Concubine'. Actually, Tang Xiao's family wasn't very rich and her parents often fought in front of her. So, to change her fate, she set out on the path of a writer. At the time that she learned of Tiffany, she was at her lowest point in life. But, as she watched Tiffany climb to where she was today, she too, composed herself and worked hard to become the author that was now worshipped by the netizens.
Soon, the two women began chatting. Tang Xiao was aware that Tiffany didn't put up a front, so she quickly revealed her original intentions for 'The Forensic Concubine', to Tiffany. As a result, they quickly discovered their views were the same and regretted that they hadn't met sooner. The more they talked, the more they got along with each other.
"I'm confident that you will portray Qing Lan well. But, you need to prepare yourself for some suffering. If we want to film this novel well, you will have a lot of hardship ahead."
Hearing this, Tiffany responded with a gentle smile, "Don't worry. You've saved me with such a great script, so I will definitely give my all."
"That's because you've also saved me in the past," Tang Xiao sincerely thanked Tiffany. "You do not know how much you mean to me. During my toughest time, you were the one that showed me persistence always paid off. If every person in this world approached life with kindness, I believe more people would be influenced by it."
"Either way, I don't think you needed my script to save you. You have always been yourself and nothing like the rumors."
Tiffany and Tang Xiao ended up chatting for a good few hours. Basically, by the end of it, both women had a clear picture of what was expected of the drama.
In the end, Tang Xiao noticed it was getting late. So, she quickly got up to go home. If she didn't, she wouldn't know how long they'd continue chatting.
"Oh, by the way, regarding the male lead, do you have any preferences?"
"Initially, I quite liked the idea of Yuri. But, the two of you have already worked together so many times and his appearance isn't suited to ancient attire, so I'll let you guys decide."
"You really don't have anyone else in mind?" Tiffany asked as Tang Xiao left.
"Well, I do have someone, but I don't think it's possible," Tang Xiao hesitated for a moment before she leaned over and whispered a name into Tiffany's ear.
As expected...
...Tiffany stared at Tang Xiao blankly.
"He was born with the almighty presence of a king. Even without acting abilities, he is capable of convincing the public and fans of the novel!"
However, casting the person she had in mind, wasn't easy to achieve.
"It's impossible isn't it? I didn't think it was possible either. It's not likely that he would act, so I'll let you guys pick someone instead. As long as you think the actor matches you, then that is already the best decision."
Tang Xiao had too much faith in them.
Other authors often had a plethora of worries when filming their novels and had multiple suggestions for actors. But, Tang Xiao was easy to work with. She simply left behind an impossible name, shrugged it off and walked away.
It wasn't that the person suggested by Tang Xiao couldn't act. But...
...
Just as 'Concubine Ning' was busy filming, an exciting piece of news exploded onto the entertainment scene of Korea. Tiffany had settled on a new drama; an adaptation of the popular novel, 'The Forensic Concubine', by Tang Xiao. As soon as the news was released, the media flocked to Crown Empire to confirm the information. In the end, Crown Empire's head of PR told everyone to wait for an official announcement and that they had nothing to reveal at the moment.
The circulation of this news created a crisis for 'Concubine Ning'. Many of the crew members had read the novel. In fact, some of them were chasing Tang Xiao's latest creation. So, it could be easily seen from the reactions of the crew, how popular this novel truly was.
As Kang Yong-Ji spent most of her time overseas, she had not seen this novel before. So, she asked her assistant, "Is 'The Forensic Concubine' better than 'Concubine Ning'?"
The assistant froze. She did not expect Kang Yong-Ji to ask such a question. So, all she could do was nod timidly.
"Tell me the truth."
"It is indeed very good. It is a masterpiece that's hard to surpass," the assistant explained honestly. "Also, I heard that Tang Xiao created the script herself. I'm sure it will be very spectacular."
"Are you looking forward to it?"
The assistant looked at Kang Yong-Ji's expression and chose to lie in the end, "How's that possible? Tang Xiao may want to adapt her novel, but she needs to consider whether her fans would accept it. Every reader has their own expectations for the female lead. If Tiffany wants to act in this drama, she will need to first get past the fans. She's got a lot of suffering ahead of her..."
After hearing this, Kang Yong-Ji was well aware that her assistant was lying to her, but she also felt her words slightly made sense. After all, fans were always the hardest to please.
So, as expected, as soon as the news spread to the fans, there was a huge commotion...
_"Oh God! Finally...a novel that I like and an actress that I like..."
_"F*ck, the novel couldn't avoid being adapted into a drama in the end. Luckily, the female lead will be Tiffany. At least that's a bit of comfort."
_"I'm too excited! Tiffany will be playing the role of our Qing Lan! Oh! She completely fits the role!"
_"This is something to be happy about. I always knew Tang Xiao was a fan of Tiffany's."
But, of course, there were fans that still had their doubts.
_"Tiffany just gave birth not too long ago. How is she going to act as our domineering Qing Lan?"
_"I'm afraid Tiffany won't be able to fit into an ancient costume, right?"
_"I acknowledge Tiffany's acting, but I can't accept the radish-shaped figure of someone that's just given birth."
_"The Qing Lan in my mind can never be portrayed by anyone. I beg Tiffany to let this go. There have already been so many novels that have been destroyed by their adaptations. This is my favorite, please don't ruin it as well!"
...
Everyone acknowledged her acting.
But, they doubted her figure and state!
*********
to be continue